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Liverpool have had some incredible players from the African continent over the years.

Some names that come to mind immediately include Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Joel Matip, and Rigobert Song—each of whom played an integral part in the Reds’ success during their time at the club.

Another player who represented Liverpool, albeit for a very short stint, is England-born, Sierra Leonean centre-back Steven Caulker.

Although born in England, Caulker had the option to represent Scotland, England, or Sierra Leone due to his diverse heritage.

His paternal grandfather was from Sierra Leone, his maternal grandmother was Scottish, and he was born in England, making him eligible to play for any of these nations.

Ultimately, Caulker chose to represent Sierra Leone, the country of his paternal grandfather, after playing in one friendly representing England.

In 2016, Caulker signed for Liverpool on loan for the remainder of the 2015-2016 season.

He made his debut in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Arsenal on January 13, 2016.

During the game, Caulker was deployed as an auxiliary striker, a role he would take up again in a later match against Norwich City, where he played a key part in Adam Lallana’s dramatic 95th-minute winner.

During his international career Caulker represented England in a friendly against Sweden, scoring on his national team debut.

However, he later requested clearance from FIFA to switch his allegiance to Sierra Leone.

After receiving that clearance, Caulker not only represented Sierra Leone but also captained the team, leading them to their first Africa Cup of Nations appearance in over 20 years in 2021.

The former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur player currently plays for Turkish side Keçiörengücü, after leaving Málaga City, where he served as player-manager.

He’s role as player-manager at Spanish club Málaga City, was cut short when he was unable to obtain a work visa.

Caulker announced his decision to retire from international duty after Sierra Leone failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

On LinkedIn, Steven Caulker wrote:

“Dear Mama Salone,”

“The time has come for me to step down as captain of the Leone Stars.”

“Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to achieve my goal of qualifying us for another AFRCON, and it is with great sadness that I must accept this.”

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